Arsenal legend makes remarkable Bukayo Saka claim and insists unlikely rival is 'better'

Bukayo Saka is one of Arsenal's most influential players but ex-Gunner Robert Pires believes the winger needs to show more consistency as he ranked him below Man City's Jeremy Doku

Arsenal legend Robert Pires has claimed that Bukayo Saka is inferior to Manchester City's Jeremy Doku as he called on the Gunner to step up in the big games.

Saka has been a crucial figure for the north Londoners, who have emerged as City's main rivals across the last two years. They've ran them close in successive title races with the Arsenal academy star continuing to come up with big moments, scoring 35 times in the last two campaigns.

That has included numerous winning goals but Pires, a 2004 Invincible, believes that City's Belgian winger is the more rounded player. The figures would suggest otherwise with Doku not even a regular starter whilst his numbers cannot match those produced by Saka.

The Frenchman though believes that Arsenal's winger doesn't do enough in the major games - urging him to step up in the Champions League.

He told Wettbasis.com: “Bukayo still lacks a certain level of consistency and experience, especially in the big games. Perhaps this season, especially in the Champions League, he will show a more convincing face than last season when it counts. For example, in my opinion Jeremy Doku from Manchester City is a bit better because he is technically stronger, has better dribbling skills and is more imaginative.”

Saka has largely remained an ever present for Arsenal as they look to make it third time lucky in the Premier League title race. Mikel Arteta's side are also under pressure to finally deliver a major trophy with Saka's only notable success coming in the FA Cup final four years ago.

The Gunners have continued investing in a bid to eventually overhaul Pep Guardiola's champion side. They completed the deadline day of Raheem Sterling, who emerged as a late target when it became apparent his Chelsea days were numbered. Sterling moved on loan with Pires citing the positive impact he can have on the frontline.

“I can well imagine that Raheem will be very motivated to start his new adventure," said the former player. "He hasn't had a happy time at Chelsea recently and it's clear that he will show everyone. He can only surprise in a positive way. Arsenal's schedule is so packed that Mikel Arteta will use every player at any time.

"The fact that Martinelli or Trossard have even more competition can also inspire them and prevent them from slowing down. Competition is always good, no matter what position."

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